List of Lakota people facts for kids
The Lakota people are a Native American tribe. They are part of the larger Sioux group. Throughout history, many Lakota individuals have become famous for their bravery, wisdom, and talents. This article introduces some of these notable people. They have made important contributions to their communities and the world.
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Famous Lakota Leaders and Warriors
Many Lakota people are known for their strong leadership. They fought to protect their way of life.
Crazy Horse
Crazy Horse (Tȟašúŋke Witkó) lived from about 1840 to 1877. He was an Oglala Lakota war leader. He is famous for his courage in battles against the United States Army. He played a key role in the Battle of the Little Bighorn in 1876. This was a major victory for the Lakota and Cheyenne warriors.
Sitting Bull
Sitting Bull (Tȟatȟáŋka Íyotake) lived from 1831 to 1890. He was a Hunkpapa Lakota chief and holy man. He was a powerful leader who guided his people during difficult times. Sitting Bull also helped lead the Lakota to victory at the Battle of Little Bighorn. He is remembered for his strong spirit and dedication.
Red Cloud
Red Cloud (Maȟpíya Lúta) lived from 1822 to 1909. He was an Oglala Lakota leader. He was known for his smart strategies in the Red Cloud's War. This war was fought against the United States. He successfully defended Lakota lands. Red Cloud later worked to protect his people's rights through peaceful talks.
Other Important Leaders
- Gall (Phizí) (c. 1840–1894) was a Hunkpapa battle leader. He was a key figure alongside Sitting Bull.
- Spotted Tail (Siŋté Glešká) (1823–1881) was a Brulé Lakota warrior and leader. He worked to find peaceful solutions for his people.
- Eagle Woman (Waŋblí Ayútepiwiŋ) (1820–1888) was a Two Kettle and Hunkpapa diplomat. She was a trader and worked for peace.
- Rain-in-the-Face (Ité Omáǧažu) (1835–1905) was a Hunkpapa war chief. He also fought bravely in the Battle of Little Bighorn.
- Touch the Clouds (Maȟpíya Ičaȟtagye) (1838–1905) was a Minneconjou chief. He was a cousin of Crazy Horse.
- Red Shirt (Ógle Lúta) (1847–1925) was an Oglala chief, warrior, and statesman.
Artists and Performers
Lakota people have also shared their culture through art and performance.
Black Elk
Black Elk (Heȟáka Sápa) (1863–1950) was an Oglala Lakota Heyoka. A Heyoka is a sacred clown or spiritual person. He was also a cousin of Crazy Horse. Black Elk shared his spiritual visions and wisdom. His life story has taught many people about Lakota beliefs.
Other Artists and Performers
- Arthur Amiotte (Waŋblí Ta Hóčhoka Wašté) (born 1942) is an Oglala artist. He is also an educator, curator, and author.
- Black Hawk (Čhetáŋ Sápa) (c. 1832–1890?) was a Sans Arc artist and medicine man. His drawings show Lakota life.
- Kevin Locke (Tȟokéya Inážiŋ) (born 1954) is a Hunkpapa hoop dancer and flute player. He shares Lakota culture through his performances.
- Moses Stranger Horse (1890–1941) was a Brulé artist.
- Dyani White Hawk (born 1976) is a Sicangu artist. She is also a former curator.
Activists and Authors
Many Lakota people have worked hard to protect their rights and share their stories.
Russell Means
Russell Means (Waŋblí Ohítika) (1939–2012) was an Oglala Lakota activist and actor. He was a leading figure in the American Indian Movement. He worked to bring attention to Native American rights.
Other Activists and Authors
- Mary Brave Bird (1954–2013) was a Sicangu writer and activist. She wrote about her experiences.
- Luther Standing Bear (Óta Kté or Matȟó Nážiŋ) (1868–1939) was an Oglala Lakota author and rights activist. He wrote important books about Lakota culture.
- Tim Giago (1934-2022) was an Oglala publisher and journalist. He founded Native American newspapers.
- Debra White Plume (1954–2020) was a Native American activist. She fought for environmental justice.
- Frank Waln (born 1989) is a Sicangu rap artist and activist. He uses music to share his message.
- Kicking Bear (Matȟó Wanáȟtaka) (1846–1904) was an Oglala activist and warrior.
- Beatrice Medicine (Híŋša Wašté Aglí Wiŋ) (1923–2005) was an anthropologist. She studied human cultures.
- Ed McGaa was an Oglala Lakota author and a US Marine Corps pilot.
Athletes
Lakota athletes have achieved great success in sports.
Billy Mills
Billy Mills (Tamakhóčhe Theȟíla) (born 1938) is an Oglala Lakota Olympic gold medalist. He won the gold medal in the 10,000-meter race at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics. His win was a huge surprise and an inspiring moment.
Actors
Many Lakota individuals have also made their mark in the world of acting.
- Nathan Chasing His Horse (born 1976) is an actor.
- Eddie Little Sky (1926–1997) was an Oglala Lakota actor.
- Karina Lombard (born 1969) is an actress of Lakota descent.
- Eddie Spears (born 1982) is a Lower Brulé actor.
- Michael Spears (born 1977) is a Lower Brulé actor.
- Zahn McClarnon (born 1966) is a Hunkpapa Lakota actor.
